Budgets discussed by selectmen

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Posted Nov. 27, 2011 at 3:15 AM

Posted Nov. 27, 2011 at 3:15 AM

Selectmen's News; At their recent meeting the board discussed proposed budgets for the coming year.

Fire Chief, Nick Marique was present to discussed his proposed budget. He explained some of the items he is currently working on such as new education, achievements and other responsibilities he has taken on. Marique noted that he has a basic rescue skill class coming up and is signing up 10 firefighters for this class. He reported that it costs at least $12,456 for four sets of gear for firefighters. He also told the board that he had hired a grant writer to assist the fire department with writing grants in the proper format. The fire department is proposing a 17 percent increase.

The town's administration budget was proposed at a negative 14 percent.

The recreation proposed budget was presented with a 1.79 percent increase.

There was some discussion regarding a payroll change to go bi-weekly to cut processing costs.

Community News

VFW Post 8393 is having a 20th annual Toys for Kids fundraiser on Sunday, December 11 beginning at 2 p.m. at the Emma Ramsey Center. The general public is invited, bring a new and unwrapped toy for a boy or girl. Santa Claus will make an appearance passing out gifts for the children and a free photo of his visit with you, compliments of Chris Goodale. Entertainment for the children and adults will be a "Magic Show" by Phillip and Henry Productions. There will be refreshments for everyone and a very profitable auction of gift certificates and item that have been donated. All proceeds will help out local families who need a helping hand to experience joy and happiness for the Christmas Season. For more information call Paul Carlson at 473-2160.

Senior Citizen bingo will be held on Sunday, November 27 at the Emma Ramsey Center. Doors open at noon and games start at 1 p.m. Steamed hot dogs, chips, cookies and soda are available for a small donation. This is a senior citizen program and players must be 60 years or older. The cost is $5 for sixteen games with all money returned to the winners. There is a 50/50 raffle and a special game.

The senior citizens will be taking a trip to Portland, ME on Tuesday, November 29. The bus will leave the Emma Ramsey Center at 8 a.m. There is no charge for transportation. The first stop will be Cabela's in Scarbough and will continue on to the Christmas Tree Shop and to the Hometown Buffet in Portland. For more information or to sign up for this trip, please call 652-4501.

The lighting of the Crèche and Christmas Tree will be held on Sunday, November 27 beginning at 4 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Milton Women's Club and the recreation department. The local pastor will be on hand to join in the celebration and the women's club will welcome in the season with traditional Christmas Carols. When the caroling is over, journey down to the Emma Ramsey Center for homemade cookies, coffee and milk. Santa Claus will welcome everyone and you will be able to make a holiday ornament for your tree.